The Working Lands Alliance, a coalition of individuals, businesses, and organizations who aim to sustain and protect farmland, is hosting the inaugural Nutmegger Cheese and Wine Festival Sept. 23 at Jones Family Farms in Shelton, Conn.

The one-day event, which coincides with the harvest season, includes cheese talks, vineyard tours, corn mazes, hay rides, and a silent auction. The fundraiser highlights some of Connecticut's artisanal products, including cheese, wine, ice cream, and bread.

"The Nutmegger Cheese and Wine Festival is a triple win. It showcases the best of Connecticut cheese, dairy, and wine, it benefits the ongoing efforts of Working Lands Alliance to protect our state's farmland, and it will help fund the Valley Initiative to Advance Health & Learning in Schools — a unique five school district partnership to improve nutrition and physical activity for kids," said Governor Dannel P. Malloy.

Advance tickets are $50 for adults and $10 for children ages 6 to 12. Tickets sold at the festival are $55 for adults. Proceeds support the Working Lands Alliance and the Valley Initiative to Advance Health & Learning in Schools (VITAHLS) Program, which fights childhood obesity.

Lauren Mack is the Travel Editor at The Daily Meal. Follow her on Twitter @lmack.